Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Butterfly Garden

We've had a butterfly garden for the last few weeks. The butterflies are painted lady butterflies to be exact.
We started out with 5 caterpillars; 3 were healthy and happy and we set them free to live on their own; 1 was sadly damaged by a curious 4 year old and so he remains with us for the remainder of his days; 1 had problems and so never successfully hatched out of his chrysalide. It's been interesting and the kids have had fun. I'm not sure if I'd do it again, though, because it's just so sad when things don't go the way you expect them too (sad for me - not necessarily sad for the kids)!

Here are the kids letting 2 of them go:



Check out the curled tongue on this one!


This is Limpy - he's the one that stays with us. He was originally just "hurt," but then eventually his wing fell off. Sometimes we take him outside to sit on the grass. Poor little guy (or girl, I guess!):

7 comments:

Nancy said...

i love the wonder in their eyes!

Jess and Jen said...

How fun that you guys had a butterfly garden! I've wanted to do this, but haven't ever done it! So fun! -Jen

Michelle said...

The children seem to be fascinated with them, what a fun thing to do.

Dave and Tana said...

very cool! what a fun thing for them to see.

The Duke said...

I'm amazed that your wingless friend is still alive! I love that look of wonder, too.
This is a great way to show kids about life.

joeandcarole said...

How great for you to do this for Henry and Ella to learn the cycle of life for these beautiful creatures. Yes, I love the look of awe and fascination in their eyes. It's amazing, isn't it?
Love you...

Papa Doc said...

I am slow reading and commenting. Hope you get this. Thank you for the pictures and comments about the kids and the butterflies. I was touched by the fact that their mom got sad. The kid will learn this emotion, too, and a healthy respect for any life is good.

Dad Clark